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Chula Vista council adopts Bayfront specific plan after heated EIR debate
Summary
After extended public comment from unions, residents and environmental groups, the City Council unanimously adopted an ordinance approving the rural specific plan and zoning changes for the Chula Vista Bayfront. Critics said the EIR left key uses and marsh impacts unclear; staff said the EIR addressed those comments.
The Chula Vista City Council on a unanimous vote adopted an ordinance approving the rural specific plan and related zoning changes for the Chula Vista Bayfront, concluding a prolonged public debate over the adequacy of environmental review.
Opponents, including San Diegans for Responsible Development and environmental and labor representatives, told the council the final environmental impact report (FEIR) and supporting studies used inconsistent project descriptions and failed to analyze potential impacts on the adjacent F and G Street marsh. "Right now the city cannot make required findings under Chula Vista Municipal Code 19.12.0.02," said Sean Ellis of San Diegans for Responsible Development, urging the council to delay adoption until the studies aligned.
Union representatives and project supporters countered that the development would create local, union jobs and has secured labor commitments. "This approach not only ensures this project is built to the highest standards, but also contributes to long-term economic growth and stability here in the city of Chula Vista," said Daniel Dela Rosa, speaking in favor of the project.
City staff responded that the issues raised in the recent letter and at the meeting were addressed in the FEIR and related responses to comments. Roy Sapao, the director of Development Services, told council members the city reanalyzed noise and lighting effects and concluded the project would not result in significant CEQA impacts to the marsh.
Mayor McCann moved to adopt the ordinance on its second reading; the motion was seconded and passed unanimously. The action adopts the specific plan and associated zoning changes described in item 5.2 on the council agenda.
The council did not adopt additional study requirements at the meeting; members said they expect continued community engagement as project-level proposals move forward. The ordinance now allows the developer to proceed under the approved land-use framework and zoning, subject to any project-level conditions and permits.
